NASA's New Giant Space Rocket: How Will It Work?

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This artist's concept shows the SLS launching. CREDIT: NASA

NASA has just unveiled the design of its new Space Launch System, involving a heavy-lift rocket that will allow astronauts and scientists to explore deeper into space than ever. How will the SLS work?

One major difference between the SLS and the predecessor used for America's space shuttles is the new launch system's heavy reliance on liquid propellants. Solid propellants, while cheaper, usually have less energy content. Also, they cannot be stopped once lit, which can be problematic if a launch goes awry.

When the new craft lifts off, it will fire the RS-25D/E engines along with booster rockets that are strapped on the outside. NASA plans to use solid booster rockets for initial tests, but may soon replace them with new boosters that employ advanced technology and use either solid or liquid boosters (depending on performance and cost). The upper stage of the rocket fires once the vehicle reaches higher altitudes, where there is little atmospheric pressure.

The exact design of the rocket's mechanics and fuel mixtures aren't yet known, but here are the basics behind launching a rocket with liquid propellants .

The powerful launch system initially will be able to carry 70 tons (63,500 kilograms) but should eventually be able to haul at least 130 tons (118,000 kg). By comparison, the carrying capacity of the now retired space shuttles was around 100 tons (90,700 kg) less.

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Joseph Castro
Joseph Castro
Live Science Contributor
Joseph Bennington-Castro is a Hawaii-based contributing writer for Live Science and Space.com. He holds a master's degree in science journalism from New York University, and a bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Hawaii. His work covers all areas of science, from the quirky mating behaviors of different animals, to the drug and alcohol habits of ancient cultures, to new advances in solar cell technology. On a more personal note, Joseph has had a near-obsession with video games for as long as he can remember, and is probably playing a game at this very moment.